Nexpro RD 40 MG: Uses, Benefits, Dosages, and Precautions

Nexpro RD 40 MG is a prescription medicine that helps relieve acid reflux and indigestion. It is a powerful combination of Domperidone and Esomeprazole that works together to improve digestive health. Let's explore the blog and learn how its benefits, how it works, and what precautions to take while using it! 

Nexpro RD 40 Tablet Uses

What is Nexpro 40 used for? The following are the conditions for which this medicine is used:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Acid reflux)

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (excessive acid in the stomach)

• Stomach ulcers

• Indigestion

• Heartburn

How Does Nexpro RD 40 Work?

Nexpro RD 40 Capsule is made of two drugs, which are its active ingredients, and play a key role:

• Esomeprazole (proton pump inhibitor): A study reports that esomeprazole reduces the production of stomach acid by hindering the activity of the gastric proton pump that is responsible for producing acid in the stomach. 

• Domperidone (a dopamine antagonist): Research states that domperidone blocks the dopamine receptors found in the gastrointestinal tract (in the chemoreceptor trigger zone). This aids in relieving symptoms like digestive discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. 

Together, both the active ingredients manage gastrointestinal symptoms. 

Health Benefits of Nexpro RD 40 

These are the health benefits of Nexpro RD 40 capsule:  

1. Treats Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (or Acid reflux): Aids in reducing stomach acid, which is caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and relieves associated symptoms like heartburn, irritation, and stomach pain.

2. Manages Functional Dyspepsia: Reduces symptoms of functional dyspepsia, such as abdominal pain or discomfort, along with nausea, fullness, and bloating, by neutralizing stomach acid and easing gas passage. 

3. Relieves Heartburn: Lowers the amount of acid the stomach produces, which helps relieve heartburn.

4. Prevents Nausea & Vomiting: Domperidone increases contractions and movements of stomach muscles, which help relieve nausea and vomiting.

5. Reduces Digestive Discomfort: Maintains stomach acid balance and eases gas passage, reducing digestive discomfort. 

Recommended Dosage of Nexpro RD 40 Capsule

Take 1 capsule per day before meals as prescribed by your doctor in the morning. However, the dosage might change depending on factors like the severity of the condition and response to the medicine.

What to do in case of missed dose and overdose:

• Missed Dose: Take the capsule as soon as you remember. However, skip it if the time to take the next dose is close. Avoid double-dosing to catch up for a missed dose.

• Overdose: Avoid exceeding the prescribed dose to prevent overdose risk. Symptoms of Nexpro RD 40 Capsule overdosage may include uncontrollable body movements, sleepiness,  twisted neck, confusion, and abnormal posture. In such a case, seek emergency medical attention or call 1-800-222-1222 to reach out to the Poison Center. 

Potential Nexpro RD 40 Side Effects

The following are the common side effects:

• Stomach pain

• Diarrhea

• Headache

• Dry mouth

• Constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Flatulence (farting)

How to manage the side effects?

Consider these tips to manage these effects:

• Headache: Take rest in a quiet space, drink water, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing.

• Stomach ache: Take the medicine with food. Also, do not eat acidic or spicy foods as they cause stomach discomfort.

• Diarrhea: Drink a lot of water or take an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-diarrheal medicine if required.

• Constipation: Drink a lot of water, have fiber-rich foods, and practice regular physical exercise.

• Flatulence: Do not have gas-producing foods or carbonated drinks, and use OTC anti-gas medicines if needed.

• Nausea & Vomiting: Consume smaller and more frequent meals and avoid spicy and greasy foods. 

Most of these side effects do not generally require medical attention and subside when the body adapts to the medicine. However, if you have a noticeable side effect that persists for more than 3-4 days, consult the doctor. 

How to Take Nexpro RD 40?

As per the standard recommendations, you should:

• Take one capsule at least 1 hour before your meal along with one glass of water.

• Swallow the whole capsule.

• Avoid chewing, crushing, or breaking it.

Important Note: Do not take the medicine with tea or coffee as they can reduce the effectiveness of the medicine and increase its side effects. 

Who Should Not Take Nexpro RD 40 MG?

Avoid this medicine if you:

• are allergic to Domperidone or Esomeprazole, or any ingredients of Nexpro RD.

• Use other medicines, like medications for fungal infections.

• have a perforation or obstruction in the intestine.

• have bleeding issues in the digestive tract.

• are living with liver or kidney dysfunction.

• have heart-related conditions like electrolyte imbalance, heart rhythm issues, or heart failure.

• have osteoporosis (weakening of bones)

• are soon undergoing Chromogranin A blood test.

• have a tumor in the pituitary gland.

• are taking anti-HIV medications like Nelfinavir, high blood pressure medicine like Verapamil, or antibiotics such as Ketoconazole or Clarithromycin.

• have low levels of magnesium or potassium.

Precautions for Nexpro RD 40 MG

Preventive measures are needed to take if you are going through the following medical or general conditions:

• Pregnancy: Nexpro RD 40 may be unfit in case you're pregnant. It has shown adverse effects on the animals, however, there is limited research on the animals.

• Lactation Period: Nexpro RD 40 is safe to use during the lactation period. It is not expected to pass to the baby while you're breastfeeding. However, you should be concerned about the matter and should take the medications only after proper consultation.

• Kidney Issues: Consult your doctor while you are taking this medication in case you have kidney disease. They may help you with the dosage according to the severity of your medical condition and the associated matter of kidney disease.

• Liver Disease: Nexpro RD 40 is not recommended in case you have moderate or severe liver disease.

• Alcohol: Avoid mixing Nexpro RD 40 Capsule with alcohol, as alcohol can increase the risk of acidity and make the condition worse.

• Driving: As the use of medicine may lead to decreased vision or alertness, dizziness, or make you sleepy, avoid driving in such a case. 

• Use in Children: Not advised to give to children under 18 years because of no safety data. See a pediatrician before using it.

• Use in Elderly People: Elderly people above 65 years should use it with caution. So, always consult the healthcare provider first. 

Interactions of Nexpro RD 40 Capsule

Drug-Drug Interactions

Nexpro RD 40 mg Capsule can interact with the following medicines, which can reduce its efficacy and increase side effects:

• Antifungal medications like itraconazole and ketoconazole

• Antibiotics like rifampin and clarithromycin

• Blood thinners like warfarin

• Anti-anxiety drugs such as lorazepam and diazepam

• Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine and tacrolimus

• Vitamins or supplements containing calcium, iron, or magnesium

Drug-Food Interactions

The medicine can interact with these foods, that's why it is advised to take it 1 hour before breakfast:

• Acidic Foods like oranges, lemons, or tomatoes

• Spicy Foods such as chili or hot peppers

• High-Salt Foods such as processed meats, salty snacks, and canned foods.

• Fatty & Fried Foods like full-fat dairy or fatty meats

• Caffeinated Beverages like energy drinks, tea, coffee, and sodas

• Alcoholic Beverages such as wine, beer, and spirits.

• Herbal Supplements like St. John's Wort, ginseng, peppermint, and ginger.

• Carbonated Drinks like sparkling water and soda

Drug-Disease Interactions

Nexpro RD can interact with the following diseases and make them worse:

• Bone fractures

• Hypomagnesia (magnesium deficiency)

• Liver disease

• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea

Diet and Lifestyle Advice When Taking Nexpro RD 40

• Avoid high-fat, spicy, and fried foods: These foods can trigger or worsen GERD symptoms.

• Avoid smoking & alcohol: Smoking can affect the esophagus's (food pipe) functioning, worsening acid reflux, and alcohol can increase the production of stomach acid.

• Maintain a healthy body weight: Being overweight can make GERD symptoms worse by putting excessive strain on the stomach.

• Manage stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, or deep breathing to relieve GERD symptoms.

• Do exercise regularly: Practice walking, yoga, or swimming to avoid pressure on the stomach and enhance digestion. Don't do vigorous exercises as they may worsen symptoms.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to dilute stomach acid, which prevents the risk of esophagus irritation.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes: Wearing tight-fitting clothes, especially around the abdominal area, can cause strain on the stomach, raising the risk of acid reflux.

Storage of NEXPRO RD 40

This is how you should safely store the medicine:

• Keep it in a dry and cool place away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Store it at a room temperature of 20-25 °C.

• Always keep it away from children and pets' reach.

Alternative to Nexpro RD Capsule

Here are the best alternatives that work similarly to the Nexpro RD capsule.

• Omeprazole

• Pantoprazole

• Lansoprazole

• Rabeprazole

• MetoclopramideCisapride

• Antacids like Ranitidine, Tums, Gelusil, or Mylanta

• Herbal substitutes such as ginger, licorice root, or chamomile.

Note: For effective treatment, see a doctor who can help determine the right medicines according to your health issues. 

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Allergic reaction symptoms like difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in the face, throat, or lips.

• Heart issues like chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeats.

• Severe digestive problems like persistent nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.

• Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance, such as tremors or muscle spasms.

• Severe diarrhea

• Severe skin issues like rashes, blisters, or skin peeling.

• Excessive fatigue or drowsiness

• Liver problems like jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), unusual fatigue, or dark urine.

Summing Up

Nexpro RD 40 MG is an effective prescription medicine for GERD and stomach-related issues. From treating acid reflux to relieving heartburn and nausea, it can help improve digestive health. However, take precautions like preexisting health conditions, current medicines, pregnancy, breastfeeding, etc., when using this medicine as it can worsen the condition or situation. Also, seek medical attention when you experience any side effects.